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Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Well it's now Tuesday after Cyber Monday and Black Friday 2010 and I was just sitting here and over a coffee was reading how this year, Sales could top $1 billion on a manic Cyber Monday and I thought, wouldn't it be great to share on our shopping experience! So please join me if you'd like to share on what you thought was the best fashion or beauty sale or deal over Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Tell us the story. What was the sale or deal and what did you purchase? Click this link
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Thursday, November 25, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving and hoping that all you fashionistas are having a wonderful Thanksgiving day with your family and friends. Soon we'll all be having Thanksgiving dinner, the turkey, pumpkin pie and mash potato, but no doubt through all this you'll be thinking of shopping!!! After all, tomorrow is Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the year and this is followed by the big online shopping day, Cyber Monday, the Monday following the Black Friday weekend. Many say that Cyber Monday has become an even bigger shopping day and that major retailers can be expected to offer their best deals with even bigger discounts on this day. Either way, Thanksgiving, Black Friday and the weekend, followed by Cyber Monday is the time that retailers will offer the best deals and prices you will see possibly for the next six to twelve months. Some of us will be hustling through the boutiques and local malls while others will spend their time online surfing the web for that perfect gift and of course there are sales on just about everything you can think of and usual favorites include the latest technology and electronics products. However, as well as the latest techno gadgets, it's a great time to shop for designer clothing and perhaps that pair of shoes and that special handbag that you’ve been thinking about all year. When it comes to fashion, here we will progressively list our best finds over Thanksgiving, Black Friday and the weekend through Cyber Monday.

Cyber Monday Deals: Fashion Sale Up to 20% off Donna Karen New York and DKNY

Enjoy 20% off of the entire site including both
Donna Karen New York and DKNY on Cyber Monday plus free standard ground shipping.

Cyber Monday Deals: Fashion Sale Up to 20% off Donna Karen New York and DKNY

Cyber Monday Deals: Up To 30% Off at Chinese Laundry Sale

Psst!!! For 6 hours only go Early Bird Special at Chinese Laundry and take 10% off any item, 20% off any 2 items and 30% off any 3 items with No Exclusions!

But here's The Big Shabang! 10 Hours Only! $20 Off All Boots, $10 Off All Shoes Chinese Laundry! Excludes Clearance.

But wait, there's more!! It's now deals after dark! Enter code BF$302010 at checkout to get $30 off any purchase over $100.

Cyber Monday Deals: 25% Lauren Merkin Handbags Sale

Here's a great Cyber Monday Deal..... Use coupon code MANICMONDAY and enjoy 25% OFF the entire site at Lauren Merkin. Coupon expires December 15, 2010.

Cyber Monday Deals: Up To 80% OFF at Stila Warehouse Sale

Here's another BIG Shabang!! Bag Up To 80% OFF hundreds of stila items available at the Stila Online Warehouse Sale open for business from Cyber Monday, November 29 to December 3 at Midnight. And remember, shipping is FREE when you spend $50 or more, so stock up and save!!!

CyberMonday Deals: Up To 80% OFF at Stila Warehouse Sale

Cyber Monday Deals: Up to 20% off Moxsie Fashion Sale

On Cyber Monday, for One Day Get 20% Off Everything! Shoes, Bags, Jewelry, Most Wanted... with code CYBERMONDAY2010 at Moxsie.

Cyber Monday Deals: 30% off at Jane Marvel Sale

Another fave of mine...perfect gifts for those on your list. Enjoy 30% OFF sitewide for 48 hours at Jane Marvel. Just enter coupon code DOW30OFF at checkout.

Visit Christian Audigier online on Cyber Monday between 5am and 11am and take 30% off, 20% between 11am and 5pm, and 15% off any time between 5pm and midnight on Cyber Monday. Sale applicable on both full price and sale items. It's the same deal at Ed Hardy. So shop early for maximum savings with these Cyber Monday Sale!

Cyber Monday Deals: Fashion Sale at Wilsons Leather

Did you miss Cyber Monday? Shop Cyber Tuesday Instead! The entire Wilsons Leather site is Up TO 70% OFF original prices!. Plus get Free Shipping No Minimum Purchase!

Into top designer fashion? Enjoy a discount of 30-50% on handbags, shoes and apparel from such designers as Valentino, Alexander McQueen, Theory, Stella McCartney, Lanvin, Halston and more at ElyseWalker.com!!! I love the Givenchy, super chic Robes San Maches dress at 50% OFF.

Black Friday - Cyber Monday Deals: Up To 40% Off Fashion Sale at French Connection

Fall Sale up to 40% OFF at French Connection US plus FREE Shipping on orders over $125 with promo code FCBFFS. Offer ends Cyber Monday, November 29.

Cyber Monday Holiday Deals: 20% OFF at Ellington Handbags

For two days only use promo code MERRY10 at checkout and enjoy 20% OFF your entire order at Ellington Handbags, creators of casual-chic women’s bags, purses & travel accessories in fine leathers and fabrics. This great sale runs from Cyber Monday, November 29 at 12.01am to Tuesday, November 30 at 11:59pm PST.

Cyber Monday Holiday Deals: 20% OFF at Ellington Handbags

Cyber Monday Deals: 20% Off Fashion Sale at Eberjey

Use code Cyber2010 to enjoy 20% OFF your entire purchase all day Cyber Monday, November 29th plus get an extra 5% off your order between 12pm EST at Eberjey. Offer ends November 29th at 11:59pm EST.

Cyber Monday Deals: 60% Off Handbags at Junior Drake VIP Sale

Cyber Monday Deals: 25% Off Fashion Sale at Magnums.net

Save 25% for 24 hours only at Magnums.net with promotional coupon code CyberMon at checkout from Midnight Sunday to Midnight on Cyber Monday, November 29.

Thanksgiving Deals: 30% Off Designer Clothing Sale at OAKNYC.com

Psst... Here's a great Thanksgiving Sale. Take 30% OFF ALL clothing and shoes in-store and online at OAKNYC.com PLUS, for a Super Deal for Thanksgiving Saturday, November 27, 6am- 2pm EST, oak jeans, a.ok sneakers and sweats will be 1/2 price or less at OAKNYC.com!!! Update: 6am to 12pm Sunday November 28, Torque Tees, Chinos, Leggings 1/2 price and 6am to 12pm Cyber Monday, November 29, Oak Sweaters $98.

Black Friday - Cyber Monday Deals: 20% Off Fashion Sale at Kooba

Shop for the Holiday and Save All Weekend at Kooba. Get 20% OFF when you enter code shop at checkout from Black Friday November 26 at 12:01am through Cyber Monday, November 29 at Midnight.

Take 25% off your purchase plus free shipping through Cyber Monday, November 29 at Steve Madden with promotional code THANKS25 at checkout. Certain EXCLUSIONS apply and clearance is excluded from this promotion and free shipping. Update: From Black Friday Night, take 30% off your purchase with promotional code THANKS30 at checkout plus free shipping through Cyber Monday, November 29, at 11:59pm EST.

Use code BLACKFRIDAY for 25% OFF sitewide at 80's Purple through Cyber Monday, November 29 PLUS all orders placed from November 24th, 2010 12:01 AM PST through November 25, 2010 11:59 PM PST, will receive a $10 gift card with ANY purchase. Gift Cards can be transferred but must be redeemed before January 31st 2011.

Black Friday - Cyber Monday Deals: Handbags Sale at Rebecca Minkoff

The Black Friday Online Sale at Rebecca Minkoff starts at Midnight tonight and ends on Cyber Monday, November 29th at 11:59pm EST.

Thanksgiving Deals: 25% Off Fashion Sale at eModa.com

Use promo code THANKS2010 and take 25% OFF your entire purchase at eModa.com all week long. Update: Use code BLACK2010 for 30% through Cyber Monday, November 29.

Black Friday - Cyber Monday Deals: 30% Handbags Sale at stefaniBags

Take 30% OFF at stefaniBags.com with promotion code BLACKFRIDAY through Cyber Monday, November 29.

Enjoy 30% OFF all purchases plus FREE Shipping at Emily Elizabeth Jewelry from Black Friday, November 26th to Cyber Monday, November 29th with promotional code BLACKCYBER.

Black Friday Deals: 15% to 20% Off Fashion Sale at Peter Kate Shoes

Shoes, shoes and more shoes. A woman can never have enough hey!! From 9am to 10am get 20% OFF everything at Peter Kate Shoes and from 10am to 5:30pm the offer is 15% OFF everything when you shop with a friend (some exclusions apply). As well as being able to buy shoes, handbags, jewelry and accessories at 15% to 20% OFF on Black Friday, I hear that Coffee and Puff's famous Christmas Cookies will also be served!!!

Black Friday - Cyber Monday Deals: 47% Off Sale at LRG

Little Research Group (LRG) is offering 47% OFF select items on Black Friday, November 26 and now also on Cyber Monday, November 29.

The good news is that the Black Friday Frenzy at Betsey Johnson has been extended one more day!! Take 40% OFF your entire purchase online now through Cyber Monday, November 29 at Midnight ET at Betsey Johnson. Plus enjoy free holiday shipping on all orders on Cyber Monday. This offer is valid on all Full Price and sale merchandise!

Thanksgiving Deals: 20% Off Fashion Sale at Cole Haan

It's 20% OFF your entire purchase in-store and online now through Sunday, November 28 with code THANKS20 at Cole Haan.

Black Friday Deals at Stila Cosmetics

At Stila Cosmetics on Black Friday only you can receive the ultimate party look set filled with stila best sellers for FREE (a $104 value) when you spend $50 or more (while supplies last) plus FREE shipping on your entire order. Use code BLACKFRIDAY. Plus check out the Stila Holiday Gift Guide with Up To 75% OFF at stila.

ALDO is offering an Extra 30% OFF all reduced footwear & handbags. This includes all SALE & Clearance boots, shoes, sandals and handbags. Prices displayed reflect this additional discount. This offer is only valid in the U.S., online and in stores through Sunday, November 28th, 2010. ALDO is also offering FREE Standard Shipping on all online orders.

Latest Update: Extra 30% OFF Extended!! Online Only for Cyber Monday at ALDO take 30% off all reduced footwear and handbags including all sale and clearance shoes, boots, sandals and handbags!

Black Friday Deals: 30% off Fashion Sale at Satine Boutique

It's 30% OFF Sale on Black Friday, November 26th at Satine Boutique. Thakoon, Erin Fetherston, Alexander Wang and many more.

Thanksgiving Deals: 50% Off Fashion Sale at New York & Company

Black Friday Deals: 40% Off Fashion Sale at Banana Republic

Enjoy 40% OFF your entire purchase until noon on Black Friday, November 26th with code BR40FRIDAY at Banana Republic. Offer valid on Banana Republic merchandise on November 26th from 12:01am through 12:00pm ET at Banana Republic stores and online.

Take an EXTRA 40% Off Fall Sale and Clearance, saving up to 75% off original prices Plus, receive FREE Shipping with ANY order from Thanksgiving Day, November 25 through November 28, 2010 at C & C California. Use code TDAYX40 at checkout.

Latest Update: Use code CCX40NOV and take an EXTRA 40% off your entire order + FREE Shipping with any order, one day only, Cyber Monday, November 29 at C & C California.

Black Friday Deals: Handbags Sale at Aster Alice Boutique

Black Friday Sale at Aster Alice Boutique starts at 11pm EST on Thanksgiving Day. Save 30-60% off. Here's the latest update: take 40% OFF all new arrival handbags with code FRIDAY40, an Extra 40% OFF on all instock sale handbags with code FRIDAY40 and 30% OFF Everything else with code FRIDAY30. Shop early for the best selections. Shop late for the best savings!!

Black Friday Deals: 30% Off Fashion Sale at Chico's

Get 30% OFF the everything at Chico's Boutiques from Noon to 6pm on Black Friday, November 26th.

Black Friday, Saturday and Sunday enjoy 25% OFF all purchases over $150 online at Vionnet Boutique with code THANKFUL.

Latest Update: The first 30 shoppers to shop with code CYBERMONDAY get 30% Off their entire order!

Black Friday Deals: Weekend Designer Shoe Sale 25% Off at Coclico

Psst... ShopCoclico.com Secret Sale!!! Email list insiders can use promotion code pumpkin for 25% off through Sunday November 28. This is your chance to score a deal on shoe styles that will not go on sale for a looooong time.

Black Friday Deals: Sample Sale at HELLZ

The Black Friday online sale at HELLZ starts at 12am Friday night and this year, some extra exclusivity has been added to the HELLZ Black Friday sale. Never before seen samples, as well as some limited edition styles will be available for the pickin', while rare elusive HELLZ collectives will be of limited supply. For the most part, everything in the online shop this Friday will be "one-of's", so shop fast!

Black Friday Deals: Beauty Sale at The Body Shop

For Black FridayThe Body Shop has a great "3 for $30" offer online and in-store across the entire store excluding prepackaged gifts and kits. Also check out the lovely "Joy in a Bag" offer for only $25, a value of $175, when you spend $30 or more. Sadly, this offer is only available in-store. It includes a tote bag (value $25) including products with an aggregate suggested retail price of $175. The Body Shop's Black Friday "3 for $30" Offer is valid online from 3am EST November 25 through to 3am EST November 27 and in-store during store hours from November 25 to 26, 2010. Note that certain conditions and exclusions apply.

Black Friday Deals: The Body Shop's "Joy in a Bag" Offer

Thanksgiving and Black Friday Deals: Fashion Sale at Lord & Taylor

Lord & Taylor have a number Thanksgiving and Black Friday offers. What caught my eye was the 25%-40% OFF Designer Handbags including DKNY, Cole Haan, Kate Spade New York and Harajuku Lovers; Extra 40% OFF already reduced shoes and 50% OFF all AK Anne Klein boots and booties; 50% OFF outwear, topcoats and raincoats; 50% OFF reduced sportswear, dresses, suits, intimate apparel and coats, and finally, 15% OFF storewide and extra 25% OFF fine jewelry with in-store savings pass or online promo-code THANKS.

Cyber Monday Deals: 30% Fashion Sale at ShockBoutique.com

Enjoy 30% off sitewide plus an additional 30% off sale items on Cyber Monday with code CYBER30 at ShockBoutique.com. This offer ends at midnight PST.

Black Friday Deals: 30% Off Fashion Sale at Creatures of Comfort

Thanksgiving - Cyber Monday Deals: 25% Off Fashion Sale at Theory

One definitely to check out is the 25% Off Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday Sale on Theory merhcandise at Theory.com. That's 25% OFF on coats, tops, dresses and more in-store and online from Black Friday, November 26 to Sunday, November 28 at 11:59PM EST. Use promo code ITSHERE at Theory.com (I love the Theory Ingrid jacket a seen sworn by Jennifer Aniston.

Black Friday - Cyber Monday Deals: 30% Off Fashion Sale at SSENSE

At the SSENSE Black Friady sale happening now until Sunday, November 28 at midnight EST it's 30% OFF sitewide with promo code NOWORNEVER on fashion from sylish cocktail dresses by Lanvin and Alexander Wang to super cool outwear by Shades of Grey and G-Star. Exceptions apply. Update: New items have been added and offer now extended to cover Cyber Monday. The 30% offer at SSENSE extends to Wednesday, December 1st.

Black Friday Deals: 30% Off Fashion Sale at Rogan NYC

Black Friday Deals: 25% Off Fashion Sale at Paige Denim

Enjoy 25% OFF your purchases of two or more jeggings at Paige Denim with promo code JEGGINGS25 at checkout.

All the best with your Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Weekend and Cyber Monday 2010 shopping and do follow the Chic Alert on twitter as we will be continuing to tweet breaking news on the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals on clothing, shoes, handbags and jewelry as the sales deets become available

For now, enjoy your Turkey and best of luck with your shopping.

Once again wishing you and your family a very happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Well Fashionistas, it’s time once again for me to share with you my Old Navy picks of the month. If you read last month’s post, Dress for Less at Old Navy, you’ll recall that I was thrilled to become part of the Old Navy Blogger Subscription Program. It’s pretty simple: Once a month, Old Navy sends me a $100 gift card to use at OldNavy.com or in an Old Navy retail store. In return, I share with you the details about my purchases along with my honest opinions – whether good or bad.

Last month, I used up my $100 gift card on a gorgeous Brown, wool-blend, double-breasted coat ($89.50 plus tax). So this time my plan was to zip past the outerwear section and head straight to the denim area. After all, you can never have too many pairs of jeans. ;-) So much for that idea! As it turned out, I abandoned my plan within a few seconds of walking into the store.

Old Navy: Orange prep coat

There before me, prominently displayed on one of the front entrance mannequins, was an eye-popping Orange pea coat (see photo immediately above). With its cheery color and classic cut, I fell for it right away. Don't those visual merchandisers and in-store stylists earn their keep!!! Although there were plenty of hues to choose from, including Black, Navy Blue and a Cream / Gray Plaid, I opted for the Orange, aka “Golden Gate” as it was described on the Old Navy website. I have to admit that I own a LOT of coats and jackets, so I it’s not like I needed a new one. However, in a closet that is a sea of Black and Brown, I figured that Orange pea coat would add a welcome punch of color.

I bought a size small and would say that this Old Navy wool-blend “prep coat” runs true to size. Since I can comfortably wear a blazer or a chunky knit sweater underneath, it might even run a tad on the large side. As with the wool-blend coat that I purchased last month, the sleeves are quite long as well. This was a selling point for me since I have very long arms and too-short sleeves are always a problem. Another selling point was the cute back-waist belt with double button detailing. Pea coats aren’t exactly cut to create a shapely silhouette, so the little belt gives it a nice feminine touch.

This Old Navy prep coat is made of 50% polyester, 38% recycled wool and 12% other fiber with polyester lining. Regularly priced at $59.50, I lucked out and got it for the newly reduced sale price of $45.

Old Navy: French Violet, chunky knit, pom pom scarf

Having fallen hard for the whole mannequin display, I also bought the Black, chunky knit,pom pom scarf to complete the look (the photo immediately above shows the scarf in French Violet). Although 100% acrylic, this stylish scarf is surprisingly soft. It’s also super-long – more than five feet! (I adore long scarves because they let me play with so many different tying options.) For just $10, reduced from the regular price of $12.50, there was no way I could go wrong with this purchase. I chose the Black pom-pom scarf to complement the six Black buttons on my new coat, but the scarf is also available in Aqua Sparkle, Mole (Brown), Heather Charcoal, Royal Flush (Royal Blue), Warm Sunset, Bright Idea (a Neon-y Yellow Green), and, my personal fave, French Violet (shown above).

My next pick was my best deal of the day. If someone had told me last month that I would be buying a pair of boots that cost only $15, I would have laughed and said, “You’ve got the wrong girl.” I’ll buy cheaper discount versions of just about anything – sweaters, tees, pants, jeans – but I’ve never been one to scrimp on footwear. That all changed when I saw a rack of chic “sweater boots” in the middle of the store (see photo below).

Old Navy: Adoraboots

These boots, which are called “Adoraboots” (great name!) on the Old Navy website, come in Black, Dark Gray, Concrete and Brown. They have the look of a chunky rib knit sweater and open on the side with four buttons that are simply too stylish to be hidden under a pair of pants. I bought the Brown boots to go with my Old Navy Brown coat (purchased last month) , and plan to wear them with leggings or skinny jeans, tucked in to show off the buttons and rib-knit of course! I typically wear a narrow size 7, and these fit me perfectly. On sale for $15, they are regularly priced at $34.50. I don’t expect them to last more than a season, but that’s okay. So what if they’re not an investment piece? They’re trendy, fun and comfortable. Sold!

With three purchases in hand, I had just $30 left on my $100 Old Navy gift card. Still being fairly new to the Old Navy experience, I assumed that this wouldn’t have left me with many options in the denim section. Wrong again. (Are you starting to see a pattern here? LOL.)

Now it’s confession time: Like coats and jackets, I own a LOT of jeans – not “a lot” as in “one for every day of the week,” but rather “a lot” as in dozens upon dozens. Over the years, I’ve built a denim collection that includes almost every designer label. Consequently, I’ve come to think of myself as a bit of an unofficial expert in this area. So, with my pretend credentials (“designer jeans expert extraordinaire!”) to back me up, I was excited to see what Old Navy has to offer.

Old Navy: The Diva Skinny Jeans

In short, there is pretty much something for everybody. Whether you’re looking for skinny jeans, boot cut, trousers, flared or denim leggings, chances are that you’ll find something you like for between $29.50 and $39.50. Right now, you can even get some styles, such as the Moto Skinny Jeans and the Diva Skinny Buttoned Jeans, both regularly $34.50, for just $14.99 on sale.

After looking through the many options available to me, I ultimately settled on The Diva Skinny for $29.50 (see photo above). It’s a classic, five-pocket style that comes in Black, Rinse, and, my pick, Dark Blue. While I’m not particularly tall (not quite 5’5”), my long legs require me to always purchase jeans with a minimum 34” inseam. At Old Navy, this means “long.” I bought a size 2 and am satisfied with the fit, although we’ll have to see how they stand up over time. They’ve been pre-washed for extra softness which is always a bonus, and I was happy to see that they have a bit of spandex (2%) for stretch. My only disappointment with the denim section was that there weren’t any jeans with back pocket detailing. Of course, they may have all sold out at my local Old Navy store. Anyway, I usually aim for some back pocket embellishment like raised buttons or intricate stitching because I have a less than ample rear view. In other words, whatever I can do to give my flat-as-a-pancake bottom some substance, I’ll take it! While my new Old Navy skinnies aren’t going to replace my fave booty-boosting designer jeans, they’re a good fit, comfortable, and definitely a good value.

Those are my picks for this month, Chic Alert readers! I’ll be back next month with more, just in time for the holiday season. (I predict at least one purchase with sequins. LOL.) Until then, please let me know if you’ve found some other fab Old Navy buys, either at your local store or at OldNavy.com. This Old Navy newbie needs your advice! 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this post are purely my own and were not in any way influenced by Old Navy, the exclusive Old Navy Blogger Subscription Program or Old Navy's PR agency and the $100 gift card that they provided.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

The Lanvin for H&M collection was out on the racks
in stores in North America on November 20 and its worldwide
release on November 23. As expected, early indications are that the Lanvin for H&M collection is going to be a massive sellout at most stores worldwide. With stores opening at 9:00am, queues began forming very early in the morning and, as reported by The London Evening Standard (see Shoppers queue overnight for Lanvin range at H&M) some even the night before (e.g. London's Oxford Circus, Regent Street).

Not only were there queues going around the block for the coveted designer collection, but also the H&M online site was struggling to keep up with the demand from online shoppers wanted to avoid the queues. In fact, it became impossible or at best most difficult to get on and eventually when you could, after clicking the BUY NOW button you more than likely would see the Sold out message: "The items have sold out during the day."

The same fate was found for many in-stores with the collection selling out within one or two hours. In fact, the Dubai Mall reported that the Lanvin for H&M collection sold out in just 10 minutes!!! As well as ransacking and clearing the racks, mannequins were stripped naked. Videos of the opening are already starting to appear. For instance, check out the Lanvin for H&M Collection opening in Montreal video by The Montreal Gazette.

Of course the news wasn't all bad as some lucky shoppers managed to cash out and purchase a number of pieces from the much sought after designer collection, and judging from early reports, some it would seem with more than their fair share. I just checked on eBay and as can be expected there are already hundreds of Lanvin for H&M items being auctioned off, even the popular, Lanvin for H&M Pink Cocktail Dress, the Lanvin for H&M Signature Purse Clutch and the Lanvin for H&M Faux Fur Coat Jacket are up for grabs.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Well fashionistas, the wait is finally over as tomorrow is November 23rd and that's the day that the much anticipated Lanvin for H&M collection will hit stores. And the good news is, as was anticipated (see Lanvin for H&M the Full Collection), as well as being able to purchase the collection at selected H&M Stores from 9am tomorrow, it will also be available at H&M online from 7:00am. This is great as we can avoid the long queues and shopping frenzy that these designer collaborations usually involve.

Yes, we've seen the H&M images, we've seen the promotional videos and we've even seen a backstage film shoot for the designer collaboration but now, after all the sneak-peek teasers, this covetted collection will be available to purchase at the cheap chic, high-street global retail chain H&M. Well we've had plenty of time to check out the collection and work out the pieces that we might be interested in, so it's now time to shop. I can't wait!

Lanvin for H&M Haute Couture Auction

H&M are also running an interesting fashion auction in which you can bid for exclusive haute couture creations customized out of pieces from the Lanvin for H&M collection as well as Alber Elbaz's original five signed sketches for the collection. These special pieces were showcased by celebrity models, Pixie Geldof, Olga and Anna Dello Russo and Dree Hemingway, during the exclusive couture fashion show at the Lanvin for H&M celebration held last Friday at the ballroom of The Pierre Hotel in New York. Guests at this celebration party included Sofia Coppola, Andie MacDowell, and Elettra Wiedemann among others. Below are two video clips with red carpet A-list celebrity interviews and catwalk footages from the Lanvin for H&M haute couture auction:

"To see it on the catwalk tonight styled by Alber, in his own way, is totally and utterly inspirational."
– Hilary Alexander, The Daily Telegraph

"The show was so much fun. It is hard to impress this crowd and everybody was like laughing and clapping and it was great, it was really amazing!"
– Elettra Wiedemann, Model

All proceeds from this fashion auction will be donated to UNICEF, as part of H&M’s “All for Children” project, a great cause. The online auction will end on November 26 at 11.00pm. To check out the auction or place your bid visit the Lanvin for H&M haute couture auction site.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Most will know that the super-exclusive Christian Louboutin biannual Sample Sale was held this week at Louboutin's Showroom in NYC. And by “super exclusive,” I mean that only those shoe-a-holics that were lucky enough to receive one of the coveted invitations could attend (see: Christian Louboutin Sample Sale - Invitation!!!). News of this Christian Louboutin event started me thinking about my own journey toward a pair of Loubies. It’s one that perhaps you, my fellow shoe-a-holics, can relate.

The Stores Delivery Packaging

Although I’ve been fashion-obsessed for years, I’m embarrassed to say that Christian Louboutin wasn’t even on my radar until about 2007. Yes, I owned a few pairs of Stuart Weitzman pumps, and had gushed longingly over countless Manolos and Jimmy Choos, yet I had somehow managed to go breezily about my days completely oblivious to the fabulousness of all things Louboutin! Then everything changed. I remember it like it was yesterday: I was home channel-surfing when I came upon a TV show featuring famed stylist Stacy London of What Not to Wear. It was called Fashion Fanatic, and I was immediately hooked. Compared to most of the other fashion programs on television, this one provided an in-depth look at various aspects of the industry with Stacy providing a behind-the-scenes peek at how our favorite designer pieces are made. Anyway, the episode that I will never forget was the “shoes and handbags” one. It was in this episode that Stacy, on location in Paris of course, introduced me to the magic of Christian Louboutin and his signature red sole, exploring the craftsmanship and creativity of the entire shoe-making process from initial concept through to the final creation. From that moment on, I knew that I would someday have to have a pair of Christian Louboutins.

The Christian Louboutin Packaging

Fast forward to last March when an otherwise cold and rainy day was suddenly brightened by an unexpected e-mail. Sometimes I think that I subscribe to just about every designer clothing and accessories mailing list in existence. Because I receive so many of these e-mails and don’t have time to read all of them during an average work day, I usually flag them to check them out later in the evening. Not today. Not when I opened my in-box to those three little words in big, bold type: “Christian Louboutin Sale!” This wasn’t just any sale – it was a flash sale, beginning at 12:00 noon sharp, with up to 60% off Christian Louboutin designer shoes! However, my initial euphoria was quickly dispelled when I remembered that I would be on a conference call at 12:00 noon. How was I going to make this work? I knew I couldn’t reschedule the call, but there was NO WAY that I was going to miss this sale. So, I immediately e-mailed a colleague who was also scheduled to be on the call, and basically said, “Hey, I’m going to be kind of silent around noon, so can you do me a favor and start talking a lot? Try to be as long-winded as you can because I don’t want anyone to realize that I’ve dropped off the call.” As much as I pride myself on being a multi-tasker, I knew that I would have to focus if I was going to snag a pair of Loubies in my size before they sell out. The conference call would just have to do without me.

My first look inside a Christian Louboutin Shoe Box

So there I was, sitting in front of my computer at 11:59 am, hitting the refresh button every two seconds until the big moment arrived. The sale had begun! Ignoring the work discussion that was emanating from my speaker phone, I set my sights on pages of extraordinary Christian Louboutin pumps, wedges, sandals and boots. Who knew that an online shopping experience could elicit so many emotions at once – exhilaration, anxiety, disappointment, glee…I felt all of them. No sooner would my heart jump with excitement than it would sink back down with the realization that yet another “perfect pair” wasn’t available in my all-too-common size 37. This happened over and over until, just as I was about to resign myself to the fact that my Loubie dreams would have to wait for another day, I saw them – a pair of size 37 Christian Louboutin platform sandals! Who cares that they’re fire engine red – a color that is decidedly far outside my classic style comfort zone? The same goes for the platform heel. So what if I have some problems walking? They’re Loubies!

The Christian Louboutin Sandals (Check out the heels)

I breezed through the checkout in record time, entering my credit card information with an intensity that my poor little keyboard hasn’t felt since. And then it arrived: The confirmation e-mail with the tracking number, telling me that they were shipped! I was so excited. Even with the mega-sale, the total charge to my card was $409.95. Not exactly a bargain basement price, but still more than 60% off and not far off the prices in this week's Christian Louboutin Sample Sale. My mission had been accomplished, and I refused to feel any guilt about my extravagance! My first post-purchase activity was to re-join the conference call, but I couldn’t concentrate. I was too excited. So, instead of participating in the discussion, I sent an e-mail to my colleague (who was still “covering for me” on the call) with the subject heading, “Shoes!!!” and the message, “I BOUGHT LOUBIES!!!” yes in all caps. Being a shopaholic himself, he shared my joy with a hearty e-mail congratulations while he continued to take the lead in the work-related conference call that was still going on.

It was only two days before my designer shoes arrived at my door. This in itself was a fantastic surprise since I had expected the shipping to take longer. I tore open the store's huge cardboard box and removed the duster bag to see the top of the shoe box. There it was, “Christian Louboutin,” written in that unmistakable Christian Louboutin font. I was beside myself with giddiness. I opened the box to see the most extraordinary red sandals that I could imagine. They looked exactly like the photo on the website – insanely high heels, sumptuous leather, precision stitching and, of course, the trademark Louboutin red sole. I had no idea where on earth I was going to wear them, but again, I didn’t care. I owned a pair of Christian Louboutin sandals and all was right with the world!

Rather, all was right with the world until I tried them on. In a sad scene reminiscent of one of Cinderella’s stepsisters trying desperately to squeeze her big, clunky foot into the delicate glass slipper, I had to accept the fact that my Loubies were too small. Even worse, I knew that I had no one to blame but myself. The website had clearly indicated that Christian Louboutin footwear runs small, and that we should order a half-size larger than we normally wear. But oh no, I chose to ignore their direction simply because I’ve had to go down a half-size with a few purchases in the past. What was I thinking?!

I was beyond disappointed. However, after a few hours of wallowing in self-pity, I went to the website to see if I could do a straight exchange for a half-size larger. No such luck. Everything was sold out. So, I packed them up, filled out the shipping form and brought them down to the UPS Store to return them for a refund. Then the funniest thing happened. After a couple of days I received an unexpected knock at my door. Opening it I saw a smiling delivery person holding the same big cardboard box that I had brought down to the UPS Store just a few days before. Although I had affixed the proper shipping form to the top of the package, I had forgotten to remove the original “Ship To” form from the side. They had shipped the fire engine red Loubies back to me :-) It seems that the shoe Gods definitely wanted me to have them! But sadly, I had to say goodbye to them once more and so I went through the whole process again and soon after I received an e-mail indicating that they have been received in good order and that the refund would be credited to my card.

From start to finish, the whole experience was a comedy of errors with highs and lows. I still don’t own a pair of Christian Louboutins, but I know the day will come eventually. As much as I hate to admit it, the end result was probably for the best. Being fire engine red, it would have been an awfully big expense for something that I might have worn only once or twice. I’m still very committed to getting a pair though! However, until I can find an equally amazing sale in a color that’s more “me” (Black!), my Loubie journey is on hold. When it finally happens though, I know that it will have been well worth the wait!

Thursday, November 11, 2010

As many will know the Chistian Louboutin biannual Sample Sale is one of those secret designer sales. Originally this sale was rumored to take place on Thursday, November 11 (see: Manolo Sale Scheduled for Same Day as Rumored Louboutin Sale). But now, the latest news is that it is to take place next week, from November 17 to 19 at Louboutin's NYC Showroom, 306 West 38th Street (between 8th and 9th Avenues), 14th Floor, New York, NY (see: Louboutin Sample Sale, NEXT WEEK). The first day is usually for VIPs including Editors and Media, then it's the private sale for friends and family and those in the know. Either way you have to be on the List as this is an exclusive, private and invite-only sample sale (see: The Christian Louboutin Sale Is Like Bungalow 8 When It Was Cool). And what's more, if you're not on the list then don't bother as with the honcho security guards, you just won't get in without an invite (see: Christian Louboutin Sample Sale - Don't Bother Attending if You're Not On the List). So with discounts of up to 70-80%, (from as low as $100 for a pair of covetted Louboutins, compared to the normal retail price of upwards of $500, and sometimes at Louboutin boutiques and authorized retailers like Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue department stores, you can expect to pay thousands of dollars depending on the style) what shoeaholic wouldn't just die to be on that List!!!

So I ask, who would love an invite? Would you love to get your hot little hands on a pair of those luxurious designer shoes with an authentic signature red-sole for $100 or so? Have your say, leave a comment below and tell your friends! If we get the numbers then I'm onto Loubi myself to get one lucky Chic Alert follower an exclusive invite. But there will be some conditions...lol. I want a running commentary on what you thought of this designer sale with lots of pics!!! So let the show begin and please tell your friends! :)

Thanks for stopping by and saying hello!

"Shoes are a bit of an addiction," Christian Louboutin says!!! Oh yes, he knows me well.....lol

Thursday, November 04, 2010

Since the announcement by cheap chic, high-street global retail chain H&M in early September that fashion powerhouseLanvin was going to be it's next high-fashion designer collaboration (see Exclusive Lanvin Designer Collection for H&M), we've seen a number sneak-peek teasers on the collection including some images and promotional videos, and even a film shoot backstage for the collaboration. But now, just a few minutes ago, the much anticipated Lanvin for H&M collection was officially released on the H&M website. And what can we say? Everything that we all expected in a Lanvin designer collection. It's all there!! Lanvin, feminine, luxury and stylish while at the same time being cheap chic!! Yes, Alber Elbaz you have managed to translate that dream you created at Lanvin to a wider audience!

Lanvin for H&M the Collection

As we previously reported, the Lanvin for H&M designer collection includes both womenswear and menswear lines. The womenswear collection includes 30 items and 15 accessories while the menswear collection has 25 pieces and 10 accessories. In the designer womenswear collection we have formal dresses, colorful frocks and flirty skirts, a tuxedo, beautiful faux fur jacket and trench coats in black and zebra print, tees in graphic print and tights. The accessories line includes shoes, bags, jewelery (earrings, necklaces, bracelets), sunglasses, belts, gloves and a lipstick. The Lanvin for H&M collection for me includes shirts, t-shirts, cardigans, blazers, pants, and trench coats. The men's accessories includes ties, bow ties, caps and shoes. Here's a lookbook video released on the Lanvin for H&M the Collection.

The Lanvin for H&M designer collection is certainly colorful and chic. It's classy and sophisticated as Lanvin is classically well known to be and as Margareta van den Bosch, creative advisor at H&M has said "it is very much a Lanvin collection, using their cut and tailoring, with lots of focus on form and details for both women and men."

The Lanvin for H&M collection will be available on the racks in stores in North America on November 20 followed by its worldwide release on November 23. Oh I can't wait but I'm not looking forward to the long queues and shopping frenzy. It's because of this that all this pre-launch stuff is great as it gives us all a chance to think about our selections and plan our purchases in advance. But then again a better option might be to purchase at H&M online. The collection will be available for shipping from 07:00 on November 23rd.

Lanvin for H&M Exclusive Videos

Today I have two more exclusive videos on the Lanvin for H&M collection. In the first we have interviews with film director Mike Figgis, artistic director at Lanvin, Alber Elbaz, creative advisor at H&M, Margareta van den Bosch, and models Natasha Poly and Hannelore Knuts about the Lanvin for H&M campaign movie "The Show".

The theme of this second exclusive video is What is the Lanvin for H&M collection all about? Alber Elbaz and Margareta van den Bosch talk about the Lanvin for H&M collaboration and collection.

I love the following quotes from these latest two videos:

"One time a friend of mine told me that every time she wears a Lanvin-dress a man falls in love with her." – Alber Elbaz

"The story loosely is a dream and based around the idea that the designer is having a dream, sort of about his collection, which is not so far from the truth, because the designer is quite an excentric guy who does have these kind of dreams." – Mike Figgis

Tuesday, November 02, 2010

Following on from our October 27 sneak-peek of the Lanvin for H&M collection, H&M has released more details on the collection to whet our appetites and build up publicity. The video, H&M Designer Collaboration 2010 - The Show, shows even more of the much anticipated designer collection pieces:

This video shows many of the Lanvin for H&M pieces ranging from clothing, Shoes, handbags, hats, jewelry and sunglasses that will be available in selected H&M stores and online around November 20. To see a full list of stores where the Lanvin collection will be available, visit H&M Store Locator on Thursday.

H&M for Lanvin Designer Collection

What can I say about the collection? It's everything that we could possibly expect in a Lanvin designer
collection. It's all there!! Lanvin, luxe, feminine, stylish and chic!!
Yes, Alber Elbaz you have managed to translate that dream you created at
Lanvin to a wider audience!

"I love your dress! Merci! I love Lanvin," Oh yes!!!

Stay tuned as we'll bring you more updates on the Lanvin for H&M collection very soon.